Hershey’s Going All Out for Certified Cocoa

October 23, 2012

It takes a lot of perseverance to be on top. Whatever aspect you may think of, this thought applies to that. Success, fame and wealth is sweet. Most especially for the largest chocolate manufacturer in North America, Hershey’s.

Hershey’s is one of the most well-loved brands. I know I do. It has been on heights and is still soaring up as the years go by.

To add more to its awesomeness, a statement from them released October 3, 2012 stated that by the year 2020, 100 percent of its cocoa will be from certified sources. I can just imagine the overflowing chocolates, but more so the big help in can give to the small scale cocoa farmers of West Africa.

Certified cocoa as said by Hersheys will, “Be verified through independent auditors to assure that it is grown in line with the highest internationally recognized standards for labor, environmental and better farming practices.”

The certification which the company is eyeing is the Rainforest Alliance (RA). This was said to be the case because at the back of this top rating brand is an issue regarding child labor.

J.P. Bilbrey, president and chief executive officer of The Hershey Company further stated “Consistent with Hershey’s values, we are directly addressing the economic and social issues that impact West Africa’s two million cocoa farmers and families. Expanding the use of certified cocoa across our iconic chocolate brands while working with public and private partners, demonstrates Hershey’s responsible sourcing practices. I am confident that we can make a substantial difference in West Africa by 2020.”

As numbers would tell you, 70% of the world’s cocoa supply is from West Africa. Hershey’s aiming for full pledged cocoa will not only benefit their product but more so the farmers since the company is working with African partners for the betterment of the lives of the people who cultivate the very secret of a good chocolate.

Hershey’s being the big guy in the chocolate manufacturing industry and its promising use of certified cocoa will dramatically influence all other manufacturers. At present only 5% of the world's cocoa is from certified sources so the aim is to multiply that to the highest number you can possibly think of.